Do you have kitties yourself? What are their names?

Yes! I currently share my home with two cats, Binx and Mystique, and they have very different personalities. Binx is what I think of as a classic housecat. He is affectionate, but very much on his own terms. He knows what he wants, when he wants it, and has no problem letting us know. He can be demanding, opinionated, and completely charming, which is part of what makes him so much fun to live with. Mystique is our sweet girl. She is affectionate, gentle, and seems genuinely happy to have a safe, comfortable home. She has such a soft nature and is usually happy just being near us and soaking up attention. They are a good reminder of one of the things I love most about cats: no two are alike.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a cat sitter?

Look for someone who understands that cat sitting is about more than putting out food and cleaning a litter box. A good sitter should want to learn what is normal for your cat: their routine, personality, eating habits, favorite activities, hiding places, and the little behaviors that might signal something is wrong. I would also look for someone who is dependable, communicates well, and respects your cat’s personality. Some cats will greet a new sitter at the door, while others may need several visits before they feel comfortable. A sitter should be willing to meet your cat where they are rather than forcing interaction. Finally, choose someone you feel comfortable trusting with both your cat and your home. Ask questions, share detailed instructions, and pay attention to whether the sitter asks thoughtful questions in return. Experience with cats matters, but so do patience, good judgment, reliability, and genuine affection for animals. You

How do you ensure the safety & security of the cats and the home while cat sitting?

I take both responsibilities very seriously. Before the first visit, I want to understand each cat’s routine, any health or behavioral concerns, where they tend to hide, and anything that could create a safety risk. I follow feeding, medication, litter, and care instructions closely and pay attention to changes in appetite, activity, behavior, or litter box habits that might indicate something is wrong. I am also very careful about doors, windows, screens, and other possible escape points, especially with cats who are curious or likely to make a run for an open door. I make sure the home is secure before I leave and treat keys, entry codes, and other access information as private. While I’m in someone’s home, I respect it as I would want someone to respect mine. I don’t bring other people with me, I keep the space tidy, and I communicate promptly if I notice anything unusual.